CE marking recognition extended indefinitely beyond 2024 deadline

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has announced an indefinite extension to the use of CE marking for businesses.

Following the UK’s exit from the EU, the UK will introduce its own UKCA marking for regulated products being sold in England, Scotland and Wales from December 2024. While the CE mark, used across Europe, was planned to no longer remain valid, the DBT has now reversed this decision following extensive engagement with industry.

Businesses will now be able to use either the CE mark or the UKCA mark beyond December 2024, cutting the burden on businesses to have to change over to the new marking.

Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake said:

“The Government is tackling red tape, cutting burdens for business, and creating certainty for firms – we have listened to industry, and we are taking action to deliver.

By extending CE marking use across the UK, firms can focus their time and money on creating jobs and growing the economy.”

Business groups have welcomed the announcement from the DBT for easing the regulatory burdens on small businesses and manufacturers.

Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said:

“It’s welcome to see the continued recognition of CE marked products. This will allow time for small firms to adjust to the UKCA marking system and focus on growing their business both at home and overseas.”

Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation said:

“This is a pragmatic and common sense decision that manufacturers will very much welcome and support. This announcement will help safeguard the competitiveness of manufacturers and aid the UK as a destination for investment.

“It should bring more confidence about doing business in the UK and recognises the need to work with the reality of doing business. Make UK has worked extensively with UK Government pushing hard for this decision and we are pleased the ongoing engagement has delivered this positive outcome.”